Thousands take part in Vaisakhi celebrating equality and humanity

Interviewees: Harjap Singh, Federation of Southampton Gurdwaras & Cllr Stephen Barnes-Andrews, Mayor of Southampton

Thousands have taken part in Vaisakhi celebrations across the Meridian region.

Events have taken place in Southampton and Gravesend on what is the holiest day in the Sikh calendar.

Hundreds gathered in Southampton for the celebrations Credit: ITV Meridian

The Sikh festival celebrates equality and humanity.

Hundreds paraded through Southampton followed by welcoming speeches at the Civic Centre, where guests were invited to raise the Sikh national flag.

Welcoming speeches were held at Southampton's Civic Centre Credit: ITV Meridian

Vaisakhi marks the birth of the Sikh order in 1699.

The day is used to promote friendship and acceptance of all faiths.

Celebrations were also held in Gravesend Credit: @monicabasi

Thousands gathered in Gravesend to celebrate the festival.

Groups from across the community came together around the town's Gudwara.

It is one of the biggest events in the Sikh calendar.

Groups gathered around the town's Gurdwara Credit: @monicabasi